Translation guide
The English verb 'refer' has several distinct uses. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean 'mention', 'consult a source', 'describe', 'direct someone to', or 'relate to'.
To bring up or speak about someone or something in conversation or writing.
Formal and precise, used in writing and formal speech. Often used with に to indicate the topic.
He referred to the issue.
To touch upon a topic briefly. Common in both speech and writing. Often used with に.
I referred to that point in the meeting.
Casual way to say 'talk about'. Use when 'refer' simply means 'mention' in everyday conversation.
He referred to yesterday's party.
To look at or use a book, document, website, etc. for information.
Standard term for referring to a reference source. Used with を.
Please refer to the manual for details.
To use as a reference or guide. Slightly less formal than 参照する. Often used in study contexts.
I wrote the report referring to this book.
Casual and common. Simply means 'look at'. Suitable for everyday situations.
To use a particular word or name to describe someone or something.
To send or direct someone to a person, place, or service for help or information.
To be connected with or relevant to something.
Means 'to be related to'. Use when 'refer' means 'pertain to'.
This rule refers to all employees.
A more explanatory phrase: 'is about ~'. Suitable for clarifying what something refers to.
Do not translate 'refer' as a single Japanese verb in all contexts. The appropriate word depends heavily on the intended meaning. Using 参照する when you mean 'mention' will sound unnatural.
Please refer to the dictionary.
We refer to this phenomenon using the term 'El Niño'.
This data refers to last year's sales.